New Zealand Spinach (Tetragonia tetragonioides)

New Zealand Spinach

Tetragonia tetragonioides

Succulent leaves hold crisp, salty flavor, a hardy edible ground cover. Leafy edible annual; common name: New Zealand spinach.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal salt spray and hot, dry conditions
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Watering Water deeply when top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; tolerates light frost down to 5°C but may die back in harsh cold
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Succulent, triangular to ovate leaves with slightly toothed margins, bright green
  • Flower: Small, yellow, inconspicuous axillary blooms
  • Stem: Trailing, fleshy stems that root at nodes when in contact with soil
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth to support leaf production

Fertilization

Feed monthly with balanced, diluted fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent bitter-tasting leaves

Composted banana peel tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushy, compact growth
  • Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and airflow
  • Harvest young, tender leaves regularly to promote continuous new foliage production
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: Non-toxic; edible as a leafy green vegetable

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible leafy green vegetable, coastal ground cover, erosion control